To some, the word vegetarian sparks shivers down the spine, and images of a horrible life without juicy hamburgers at tailgates and drunken chicken wings on Friday nights from Wings Over. And a few months ago, I would have been one of those people. Giving up the number two from Brenen's (the ever popular turkey BLT) and the comfort of knowing that Chipolte would always be there for me has been hard-- but it hasn't been impossible. Returning to Athens this year as a vegetarian has resulted in some road blocks, but it has also opened up my stomach to more wonderful options that Court Street has to offer.
1. Beans
A great option for a collegiate veggie head is to get the necessary proteins from beans, such as my favorite, the chickpea. Brenen's, Salaam, and Pita Pit are all great options to get some chickpeas into your life (Something I highly recommend). Burritos are also a great way to get beans on the go, a necessary fast option for every collegiate vegetarian.
2. Veggie Burgers
For those days after a really tough exam when you're just craving a burger and french fries, don't cave! A delicious veggie burger is a great alternative to the red meat original. My favorite veggie burger is found at the Court Street Diner, where the chrome dining experience is just as fun as the food served.
3. Tofu
A taboo word in many college students vocabulary, tofu is a great option for vegetarians looking to eat a meal with a meat replacement. Progressive restaurants such as Fluff and Ginger both serve tofu on their menus in a bowl with other veggies and choices of flavorings. Give it a try instead of shying away from the unknown!
4. Pescatarians
A little toe-dip into the world of vegetarianism, the pescatarian lifestyle opens doors to various seafood items found in Athens. Ranging from sushi at Ginger, to shrimp noodle options at Noodle Fusion, and fish tacos at Sol, good seafood isn't difficult to find on campus. The flavors infused into each dish mask any stereotypical fishy flavor you may be scared of.
5. Quinoa
A recent food item that has becoming increasingly popular is Quinoa, a grain recognized to be incredibly nutritious and full of heart healthy fats. Though this food seems exotic, it can be found right on court street at Fluff bakery, and at Krogers for those mobile upperclassmen who want to experiment in the kitchen!
For those of you who aren't into ~labels~, try out these items anyways! Eating vegetarian options can be enjoyable as well as healthy. So take it from me and don't be afraid to take some food risks-- you may end up adding them to your weekend rituals of Court Street dining.
Comment your favorite vegetarian Athens meal below!
